Ultimate 3-Day Cinque Terre Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Discover the vibrant villages, scenic hiking trails, and authentic Ligurian flavors that make Cinque Terre Italy’s most enchanting coastal escape.

Main view of Cinque Terre

Day 1: Explore Riomaggiore & Manarola

Morning

Start your Cinque Terre adventure in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village known for its colorful waterfront houses and dramatic cliffs. Wander through its medieval streets and enjoy the morning buzz at the harbor.

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore

Enjoy a traditional Ligurian breakfast at Bar O'Netto, a local favorite for fresh focaccia and cappuccino with a view of the marina.

Bar O'Netto

Bar O'Netto

Afternoon

Take the panoramic walking trail to Manarola, famed for its pastel buildings and romantic sea views. Don't miss a stroll down to the harbor for iconic photo opportunities.

Manarola

Manarola

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Trattoria dal Billy, a beloved trattoria with terraces overlooking the Ligurian Sea and a menu of fresh, local catch.

Trattoria dal Billy

Trattoria dal Billy

Evening

Sip local Sciacchetrà wine at Nessun Dorma, a cliff-top bar with legendary sunset views over Manarola’s vibrant houses and the Italian Riviera.

Nessun Dorma

Nessun Dorma

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Vernazza & Corniglia

Morning

Begin your day in picturesque Vernazza, renowned for its lively piazza, historic Doria Castle, and photogenic harbor fringed by fishing boats.

Vernazza

Vernazza

Climb to Doria Castle for panoramic views over the coastline and village rooftops—a fantastic spot for early morning photos.

Doria Castle

Doria Castle

Afternoon

Take the scenic hiking route or train to Corniglia, the only Cinque Terre village perched high above the sea, offering sweeping views and a tranquil, authentic vibe.

Corniglia

Corniglia

Stop for a leisurely lunch at Ristorante Cecio, where you can savor homemade pasta, regional wines, and magnificent terrace views over the coast.

Ristorante Cecio

Ristorante Cecio

Evening

Unwind at Bar Terza Terrazza, an intimate bar in Corniglia with local aperitifs and one of the best sunset panoramas in the entire region.

Bar Terza Terrazza

Bar Terza Terrazza

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Monterosso al Mare & Hidden Gems

Morning

Start your final day in Monterosso al Mare, the largest and flattest Cinque Terre village, famed for its long sandy beach and charming old town.

Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso al Mare

Kick off the morning with a pastry and espresso at Il Massimo della Focaccia, a hidden gem bakery specializing in fresh focaccia and Ligurian treats.

Il Massimo della Focaccia

Il Massimo della Focaccia

Afternoon

Relax at Fegina Beach, the largest sandy beach in Cinque Terre, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or renting a paddle boat on the clear Ligurian waters.

Fegina Beach

Fegina Beach

Lunch at Ristorante Miky, an upscale favorite in Monterosso for refined takes on Ligurian classics like seafood risotto and anchovies with lemon.

Ristorante Miky

Ristorante Miky

Evening

Walk the scenic trail to Sanctuary of Madonna di Soviore, a peaceful hilltop sanctuary offering a serene escape and panoramic sunset views over Monterosso and the sea.

Sanctuary of Madonna di Soviore

Sanctuary of Madonna di Soviore

For a final treat, head to Enoteca Internazionale in Monterosso’s old town, a cozy wine bar specializing in local varietals and artisanal bites.

Enoteca Internazionale

Enoteca Internazionale

📍 Directions for Day 3

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